President Donald Trump told supporters on Truth Social Sunday that he is considering moving the White House press corps out of the James S. Brady Press Briefing Room. The president said the relocation would free up “very badly needed space” for the administration’s renovation projects, and he dismissed rumors about restoring an indoor swimming pool as “such a stupid thing.”
Why the change is being discussed
Trump’s post came a day after the New York Times reported that the president had talked about replacing the briefing room with a swimming pool. The White House quickly referred Fox News Digital to the president’s own statement, which emphasized that no pool is planned and that the focus is on repurposing the space for functional needs.
Administration’s renovation agenda
During a rally in Florida last Friday, Trump highlighted the ongoing upgrades to the White House, describing them as “building some beautiful things.” He also noted that he personally funded the installation of two 88‑foot‑tall flagpoles on the grounds last July, underscoring the administration’s commitment to restoring the historic site’s visual prominence.
Critics respond
Democratic leaders and several left‑leaning media personalities have criticized the proposed changes, arguing that moving the press corps would further limit transparency. Their objections were noted in the original reporting, but the administration’s rationale—providing essential space for renovations that preserve the White House’s legacy—remains central to the discussion.
Historical context
The White House’s indoor swimming pool was originally opened in 1933 after a New York Daily News campaign raised funds for President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who used therapeutic pools for his polio treatment. President Richard Nixon later ordered a press briefing room to be built above the pool to meet the growing demand for televised news coverage.
What comes next
The White House has not provided a timeline for any potential relocation of reporters, nor has it identified a specific alternative site. The administration’s focus, however, remains on completing the broader renovation plan, which includes updates to the historic ballroom that broke ground in October 2025.
Public reaction
Supporters have praised the president’s willingness to modernize the executive residence while preserving its historic character. Critics continue to question the impact on press access, but the administration has reiterated that any move would be “to a less obnoxious location” and would not impede the media’s ability to cover the presidency.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
